Armenia could submit an application to join the European Union as early as 2027, with 2028 also a realistic possibility, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has said, pointing to growing political support for EU enlargement.

Speaking at the EU Enlargement Summit 2026, organised by Euronews, Pashinyan said he saw signs of stronger political will within the bloc to welcome new members, creating an opportunity for Armenia and the EU to align their expectations, according to Armenpress.

The Armenian prime minister was asked about the country's progress towards possible EU membership.

In March 2025, Armenia adopted a law launching the process of joining the European Union. Pashinyan explained that the initial aim was to create an alternative for Armenia and its citizens, challenging the long-standing perception that the country had no other strategic options.

"We have recently been hearing some good news from the EU. Before that, there was uncertainty over whether the European Union wanted to enlarge, but now we see certain signs that there may be strong political will within the EU for enlargement, which means Armenia's and the European Union's expectations could align," he said.

Pashinyan also stressed that closer ties with Europe were important for protecting Armenia's democracy, advancing democratic reforms and making democratic institutions more sustainable.

He noted that the EU had been one of Armenia's key partners in implementing democratic reforms since the country gained independence.

Asked when Yerevan might formally apply for EU membership, Pashinyan said the process should involve political dialogue with European partners rather than simply submitting an application.

He expressed confidence that the opportunity would arise soon, adding that cooperation between Armenia and the EU had been steadily deepening.

"I think next year could be realistic, and 2028 could also be realistic," the prime minister said.

For now, Armenia is prioritising visa liberalisation talks with the EU, with a target of achieving visa-free travel in 2029.

Pashinyan described this as another major milestone in bilateral relations and said the country had already embarked on a process that could eventually lead to a decision to seek full EU membership.

He also emphasised that relations between Armenia and the European Union had reached their highest level ever.